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NOTE -- A rate cut should translate to a lower baht From Reuters / Bangkok Post Interest rates in Thailand should be cut quickly and sharply to help lift the economy out of “disaster”, says Kittiratt Na Ranong, who is widely expected to be named chairman of the board of the central bank. A Pheu Thai Party loyalist and former finance minister and stock exchange president, Mr Kittiratt told a seminar on Thursday that interest rates were too high and all sides must work together to address that. “It’s the way to prevent disaster. Today, I still believe that,” he said in reiterating a call he first made last year for fast and sharp cuts in interest rates to boost the economy. The government has yet to confirm the selection of Mr Kittiratt as chairman of the board of the Bank of Thailand, but sources with knowledge of the process have confirmed to Reuters his selection, which has been widely reported in local media. The government’s nomination of Kittiratt for the job faced strong opposition from economists and former Bank of Thailand governors concerned about political influence on the independent central bank. The Pheu Thai-led government has been at odds with the central bank for the bulk of its time in office since returning to power in September 2023, mostly over interest rates it says are shackling the economy. https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2923126/kittiratt-rate-cuts-needed-to-avert-disaster-in-thailand

From ESPN / MSN Suphanat Mueanta has always been destined for big things -- from the time he became the youngest player to both debut and then score in Thai League 1 at the age of 15. A year later, in 2019, he would set a similar record on the continental stage - becoming the AFC Champions League's youngest scorer at just 16 years and eight months. Many a prodigious talent has however failed in living up to their full potential. That will not be the case with Suphanat. Still only 22, the fleet-footed attacker recently returned to Buriram United after a loan stint in Europe with OH Leuven. The fact that he did not make a real breakthrough might led some to suggest it was a failed spell but the exposure he received would have been invaluable, especially considering he did make 14 appearances in the Belgian Pro League. It will be intriguing to see what the future holds for Suphanat, who should be aiming to continue developing at a higher level than in Thailand. Following in the footsteps of older brother Supachok Sarachat -- who has spent the last two and a half years with Consadole Sapporo -- and venturing to Japan's J1 League seems a logical move. In the present, though, his focus is firmly fixed on helping Thailand win a record-extending 8th ASEAN Championship title. And despite his relative youth, his undeniable quality and the fact that he has been around for a while now mean he is even playing the role of main man -- in an talented but inexperienced Thailand outfit missing some notable names in Chanathip Songkrasin, Theerathon Bunmathan and Teerasil Dangda. The added responsibility has hardly fazed him. With victories over Timor-Leste, Malaysia and Singapore, the War Elephants are already guaranted top spot -- and a semifinal berth -- ahead of Friday's Group A finale against Cambodia. Remarkably, Suphanat has been named Player of the Match in each match and already has three goals in as many games. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/soccer/suphanat-mueanta-has-gone-from-teenage-prodigy-to-thailand-s-main-man-at-just-22/ar-AA1w9daN

From Pattaya Mail The initial success of DTV has been truly amazing with over 50,000 issued in just five months by Thai embassies and consulates abroad. As ever, they are fiercely independent and have their own documentary requirements within a broad framework established nationally. We all have to accept that reality like it or not. The whole subject is far too wide to address in detail here, so I propose we take a broad look at some of the pluses and minuses of this unprecedented innovation. DTV was announced primarily to address the needs of digital nomads or remote workers whose total global number is around 35 million. It cannot be a coincidence that other ASEAN partners, such as Cambodia and the Philippines, are now examining how to include this group within their own immigration agenda. But the point to stress is that digital nomads here cannot have Thai customers nor interact with the Thai economy. Do remember there isn’t any shortage of immigration police or investigators at the Department of Employment. Soft power or activity is another route to DTV. The bulk of successful applications have been for cookery or Muay Thai classes with the principal alternative being hospital appointments. It is important that, for adult learning, the course should last for several months at least or that medical treatment is prolonged and not just a matter of having a tooth extracted. Schools or academies should be registered with the appropriate government ministry. Some applicants have tried to broaden the activity to include learning the Thai language or the principles of Buddhism, but I don’t know of any successful cases as there are separate visas. A third route to DTV is family such as a Thai spouse and/or dependent children. Here applicants have to consider whether DTV suits their needs better than, say, the 12-months marriage visa with extensions or the non-immigrant three months visa or even the 60 days visa exempt. There can be no final answer as the foreigner’s status (such as age and whether employed overseas or in retirement) may be factors to consider. Some married foreigners over 50 prefer the annually-renewable extension of stay based on retirement which is, perhaps, the least bureaucratic of all the options. A third route to DTV is family such as a Thai spouse and/or dependent children. Here applicants have to consider whether DTV suits their needs better than, say, the 12-months marriage visa with extensions or the non-immigrant three months visa or even the 60 days visa exempt. There can be no final answer as the foreigner’s status (such as age and whether employed overseas or in retirement) may be factors to consider. Some married foreigners over 50 prefer the annually-renewable extension of stay based on retirement which is, perhaps, the least bureaucratic of all the options. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-immigration-lawyer-assesses-destination-thailand-visa-484385

From Pattaya News On December 17th, 2024, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and key officials held a meeting to address traffic congestion, drug issues, begging, and other social problems to improve order in the city. The meeting focused on six key issues: traffic law enforcement, drug abuse and illegal items like e-cigarettes and sex toys, tackling illegal vendors and beggars, scams targeting tourists around the Grand Palace, the impact of illegal Chinese businesses in areas like Huai Khwang, and land use regulations in districts such as Phaya Thai. Governor Chadchart announced the first model zone will begin along Sukhumvit Road, from Ploenchit Expressway to Phra Khanong intersection, targeting drug-free zones and cracking down on begging, illegal vending, and exploitation of tourists. National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of laws, particularly against illegal businesses, overloaded trucks damaging infrastructure, and organized begging. He noted plans for targeted zoning and joint task forces to address these problems, given limited resources effectively.

What can I say; I've been away from SK for six days now and I'm suffering withdrawal symptoms. 😑

The DA will have little choice other than to seek murder in the first degree. But it may not be a cut and dry verdict by any jury of his peers.

Phoenix Massage is offering 3, one-hour massages for 1,000 baht (normal price 799 for one). The offer is good Dec. 18 to 20 but package once purchased doesn't expire and may be shared.

+1 The 3300 baht for 90 minutes at first blush seems like a lot--and it is--but it's not out of the ballpark. One hour at Phoenix (assuming no promotional discount on house fee) would cost you 1,999 baht (799 + 1200 tip). Both shops have their advantage: Phoenix has twinks and twunks; Senso has more hunks and convenient location. Agree that the all-in pricing is the stress-free route to to a satisfactory experience.

Look on the bright side: It confirms that you are a man of sound judgement.

From the Straits Times Thai tear-jerker How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies has made the shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, it was announced in Los Angeles on Dec 17. The film that became a sensation in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia joins 14 other non-English-language films on the shortlist. The family drama about a cancer-stricken grandmother (Usha Seamkhum) and her scheming grandson (Putthipong “Billkin” Assaratanakul) is the first Thai movie to make the Oscars shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category, formerly known as Best Foreign Language Film. It is also the only title from Asia among the top 15 picks. The entry from the United Kingdom, Santosh, is a Hindi-language film set in rural India. Singapore’s entry to the category, La Luna, a Malay-language comedy-drama directed by Singaporean film-maker M. Raihan Halim, failed to make the cut. The remaining contenders in the category are I’m Still Here (Brazil), Universal Language (Canada), Waves (Czech Republic), The Girl With The Needle (Denmark), Emilia Perez (France), The Seed Of The Sacred Fig (Germany), Touch (Iceland), Kneecap (Ireland), Vermiglio (Italy), Flow (Latvia), Armand (Norway), From Ground Zero (Palestine) and Dahomey (Senegal). The film is the box-office champion of 2024 in its home country and has earned nearly US$50 million (S$67 million) globally. In Singapore, it grossed $5.86 million, making it the highest-earning Thai film of all time and the highest-grossing Asian title of 2024. Across South-east Asia, the film has set box-office records for a Thai production. It is also an outlier in the Thai film industry, a regional powerhouse known for its horror and comedy exports.

From Bangkok Post The Public Health Ministry has announced measures to reduce salt and sodium consumption, aiming to reduce the problem of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin chaired the National Policy Committee on Salt and Sodium Consumption Reduction to reduce NCDs on Monday saying Thai people consumed salt and sodium much higher than a standard recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). He said a 2009 ministry survey indicated that Thais consumed 4,351.69 milligrams (mg) of sodium per person per day from their diets, which is twice the WHO's recommendation of 2,000mg per day. More than 22 million Thais suffer from diseases related to sodium consumption, such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2921581/salt-reduction-plan-seen-as-key-to-curbing-ncds

Please note final paragraph. ==================== From Bangkok Post Intending visitors to Thailand will be able to apply online for an e-visa at Thai embassies and consulates worldwide from Jan 1. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said that from Jan 1, 2025, the Thai e-visa system would be operative at all 94 Thai embassies and consulates. Worawoot Pongprapapant, director-general of consular affairs, said travellers will no longer have to queue up and file many documents at embassies. Travellers could conveniently and safely apply for visas at www.thaievisa.go.th anywhere and anytime and pay visa fees online via Kasikornbank. However, travellers from some countries will still have to show payment slips at embassies and consulates, Mr Worawoot said. He said the e-visa system will cover tourists, students and workers. Copies of approved e-visas will be sent to applicants via email. Tourists from 93 countries do not have to apply for visas in advance and can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, he said. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2922101/thai-e-visa-system-to-cover-all-thai-embassies-consulates-on-jan-1

From Bangkok Post ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, continues its tradition of world-class celebrations with the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025. This year’s event, the fifth, promises to be a global phenomenon featuring eco-friendly fireworks spanning 1,400 metres and visible from up to 5 kilometres along both banks of the river. The dazzling display, crafted with environmentally conscious techniques, is a collaboration between award-winning Japanese fireworks designers and Thai creative teams. Presented under the theme “Celebrating the Everlasting Legacy of Siam,” the fireworks unfold in six acts, each telling a story of Thailand’s cultural and natural beauty: Act 1: Vibrant Spectrum of Thai Wisdom Act 2: Rhythm of Blossoming Nature Act 3: Luminous Jewel of Thai Heritage Act 4: Magical Melody of the Cosmic Symphony Act 5: Supreme Magnificence on the Chao Phraya River Act 6: Celebrating the Everlasting Legacy of Siam The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM will take place from December 29–31 at River Park, ICONSIAM. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur in person or tune into a live broadcast on 18 channels, including Thairath TV Channel 32HD, ONE31, GMM25, and NBT, or online via Facebook and YouTube. The live broadcast begins at 11:00 PM, with ICONSIAM’s streaming starting at 5:30 PM. For event details and participation conditions, visit www.iconsiam.com, Facebook: ICONSIAM, or LINE Official: @ICONSIAM. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2922176/thailands-longest-eco-friendly-fireworks-light-up-iconsiam

This is all true. Now if we all could just stop talking about him.🙄

I think you're becoming aroused.

I just scanned through the last 100 threads in the Beer Bar and only one is about Trump. On the other hand, if you go over to the Politics Forum, just about every topic is about Trump.

From The Thaiger Everyone loves delicious food, but sometimes our favourite dishes can be harmful to our health if we eat too much of them. Processed foods, especially meats like sausages, are popular in Thailand, but eating them too often can lead to serious health issues such as kidney disease and cancer. It is important to understand the risks and make mindful choices to protect our health. Processed meats, like sausages, are convenient and tasty, but they can be harmful if consumed regularly. They often contain high levels of sodium (salt), phosphorus, and preservatives. These substances put extra stress on our organs, especially the kidneys, and can lead to severe health issues over time. Sausages, in particular, are high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and force the kidneys to work harder to remove excess minerals from the blood. Just one sausage can contain about 21% of your daily recommended intake of sodium. When eaten in excess, this can cause long-term kidney damage. Moreover, processed meats can increase the risk of colon cancer. They can cause inflammation in the digestive system and create harmful chemicals like colibactin, which are linked to cancer. Many sausages also contain preservatives such as sodium nitrite, which can turn into cancer-causing chemicals when cooked at high temperatures. Continues at https://thethaiger.com/guides/best-of/health/this-thai-food-can-cause-serious-kidney-problems-and-cancer

From Pattaya News Thailand is actively considering amendments to its alcohol control laws for the upcoming year. The Thai Ministry of Public Health has announced that the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is set to be submitted to parliament in January 2025. This bill aims to align Thailand’s alcohol regulations with global norms but with a strong focus on public health and safety. Key points of the proposed changes include: Sales Hours: There is a clear intention not to allow 24-hour alcohol sales. Instead, specific regulations will determine the allowable hours for sales, potentially adjusting the current restriction on afternoon sales between 2pm and 5pm to more international standards. The 2PM to 5PM ban has been criticized for many years, especially in tourism destinations, and many lawmakers have sought to remove the decades old law for some time now, TPN Media notes. Hours will likely be adjusted by area and not by any national standards, allowing greater adjustments for tourism areas versus quiet residential areas. Public Health and Safety: The new laws emphasize strict enforcement to prevent underage access, including the formation of provincial alcohol control committees. There’s also a push to ban ‘drinking games’ due to health and legal risks they pose. It’s not completely clear what this means but could potentially endanger popular bar drinking games like connect four or jackpot if it seems to be connected to doing shots or more drinks. Feedback on social media around this proposal is nearly universally negative, with many claiming it would be an unenforceable law and some concerned it could affect pool or darts. Drink-Driving Prevention: Advocacy groups and public health officials are concerned about the impact of alcohol on road safety. There’s a current campaign aimed at reducing drink-driving during peak times like the New Year, with new policies potentially aiming to curb the 34% of fatal accidents linked to alcohol consumption during the last New Year’s celebration. Public and Political Support: The proposal has garnered attention from various sectors, including health advocacy groups and political parties. For instance, anti-alcohol advocacy groups have supported the move for stricter controls, while some political entities like the Move Forward Party have proposed bills in the past to ease restrictions for local producers but keep public health in mind. The final decisions will likely involve significant debate and adjustments based on public feedback, political negotiations, and expert recommendations. TPN media notes that these are proposals and by no means guaranteed to pass as law. https://thepattayanews.com/2024/12/17/thailand-considering-banning-bar-drinking-games-as-part-of-upcoming-alcohol-control-law-adjustments/

+1 It doesn't need a catchy phrase--or in this case a kookie one. What it needs is the acknowledgement that Pattaya represents many things to many people and that all one.

It's not prostitution that deters would-be tourists. Common street crimes have been on the rise but authorities seem content to maintain their "reactive" role in responding after the fact rather than develop a "proactive" stance that heads of street violence. The areas where robberies and physical attacks are most common are well known. All too often offenders pay a minor fine and find themselves back on the streets to pick up where they left off. It's a formula for recidivism.

From Pattaya Mail Navigating Thailand’s New Tax Rules The other day, I sat down for a chat with Barry. We were both sipping our coffees, talking about the growing worries among expats here in Thailand. The government’s new tax guidelines were the hot topic. It’s no surprise it’s got everyone asking questions: “What does this mean for me?” “How will it affect my finances?” It was December, after all—the month of Christmas, a time of giving. So I thought, why not offer 15 minutes of free consultations as a little gift for the festive season? I figured it might help ease some concerns, even if just a little. Well, what happened next was a bit of a surprise. My inbox, Facebook page, and phone just lit up. I ended up speaking with 32 people 31 living here in Pattaya and 1 all the way from overseas. I even handled one case entirely through email. It’s clear that these new regulations struck a nerve. I started to notice some familiar themes as I answered their questions, so let me share a few with you maybe over your cup of coffee, you’ll see something that resonates. How should I plan my finances as a foreigner in Thailand? That’s the big one. With these new rules, planning is everything. From January 1, 2024, any foreign income you bring into Thailand might be taxable under the progressive personal income tax system, which runs between 0% and 35%. How much tax will I need to pay? It’s a fair question. Thailand’s tax system is tiered how much you pay depends on how much you earn. But what really matters is understanding what’s actually taxable and what isn’t especially if your income comes from multiple places. Wait, I didn’t know I could get tax deductions! This one comes up a lot. Many expats don’t realize they may qualify for deductions and allowances things like spouse or child deductions, or life insurance. Small steps like these can add up and save you a lot of money. I have multiple bank accounts—how do I manage them? It’s common to hear: “I’ve got one for daily expenses, another with my 800,000 THB savings, and another for receiving funds from abroad.” Here’s the thing: you need to be crystal clear about where the money comes from. Proper records will save you from any headaches later on. I withdraw money from ATMs using my overseas cards. Sounds simple enough, right? But under the new rules, withdrawing cash might raise flags if it’s seen as taxable income. It’s something to watch out for. I transfer money into other people’s accounts. Is that a problem? Transparency is key here. If you’re making transfers, be ready to explain them and have the documents to back it up. Is this policy only targeting big fish? I’ve heard this question a lot. While it may seem aimed at high-income individuals, the reality is that it applies to everyone. If you’re bringing foreign income into Thailand, it’s important to get ahead of the game with proper planning. Capital Gains Tax: What You Need to Know Now, if you’re earning capital gains maybe from selling real estate, stocks, or other investments—there’s another layer to consider. In Thailand, capital gains are treated as personal income and taxed accordingly. And starting next year, even overseas gains could come into play if they’re brought into the country. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/navigating-thailands-new-tax-rules-lets-talk-over-coffee-484107

From Pattaya Mail The president of Thailand Privilege Card (TPC) has admitted that the 5-20 years visa and perks program faces negative issues which limit growth. TPC president Manatase Annawat cited several factors, including the trend of neighboring countries to promote similar schemes. He is believed to be referring to schemes for the well-heeled such as the Malaysia My Second Home 10-year multiple entry visa. He also pointed to other Thai government initiatives such as the Destination Thailand Visa, technically a tourist “activity” visa which allows multiple entries of 180 days over a five year period. Extensions of a further six months at Thai immigration offices are also a possibility, although the criteria (if any) remain speculative for now. Mr Manatase did not mention the 10-year LTR or Long Term Residence which attracts wealthy retirees and business executives amongst other groups. In a rare admission by a leading Thai business executive, Mr Manatose commented that some TPC customers were concerned about the latest interpretation by the Thai Revenue Department that foreign expats (residing here at least 180 days in a calendar year) could be taxed on some earned income transmitted from abroad. There is currently no consensus amongst Thai tax experts about the likely impact, apart from the common sense dictum to seek a professional consultancy if concerned TPC now has more than 38,000 members with about three quarters residing in Thailand for most or all of the year. The president confirmed that 47 percent of holders were Chinese and that the high potential future lay in the Middle East and India. The latest addition to the TPC “family” is the five year bronze membership priced at 650,000 baht for five years which is available by application until June 2025, or longer if successful. Aware that Thailand’s long term visa program is confusing to many potential expats – there are several annually renewable visas and extensions of stay also in the immigration pot – Mr Manatose suggested the government should set up a committee of related organizations to ensure collaboration and sharing of mutual benefits. The Elite card was initiated in 2003 by then prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and has undergone several overhauls since then.

I've been patronizing SK shops since my first trip after Covid. The shops that I found myself going back to most frequently have grown rapidly but not necessarily well. There's once shop that I've patronized more than others but has begun to disappoint me not with the performance of the guys but with management's lack of attention to arrival times and keeping the customers informed of delays or no shows. My advice now is not to pre-pay until the guy actually arrives in the shop.

This has echoes of an army in disarray. We saw it in Germany during the later half of WWII with assassination of senior field-grade Wehrmacht officers and again in Vietnam with incidents of "fragging" of mostly company-grade US officers in the field. It typically has its roots in widespread dissatisfaction at various levels of command.

Have been a customer at this shop and can recommend the satisfactory massage. Oil massage rooms located on lower level.